Advancing the understanding of an essential element.SCIENCE · SOCIETY · SUSTAINABILITY
Why zinc

One element.
A remarkable reach.

The element, its ions and its compounds play different roles. Understanding those differences is the first step towards understanding zinc.

01 /

Life, health & nutrition

Essential trace nutrient

Zinc is involved in normal growth, immune function and cellular processes. Food and nutritional adequacy belong at the centre of this story; health claims need their own evidence.

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02 /

Soils, crops & food

Agricultural micronutrient

Zinc is essential for plants. A good fertiliser decision starts with the soil, the crop and local evidence. Zinc deficiency should be assessed before interventions are proposed.

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03 /

Sunscreen, cosmetics & care

Zinc oxide · ZnO

In sunscreens and cosmetics, zinc oxide can serve specific formulation roles. Its presence in a product is the beginning of a technical discussion about performance, testing and intended use.

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04 /

Lubricants & formulated materials

Zinc compounds

Zinc-containing chemistry has roles in antiwear lubricant additives and materials such as rubber. The compound, specification and complete formulation determine what it can do.

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05 /

The built environment

Galvanising & zinc alloys

Zinc coatings protect steel against corrosion. Thoughtful specification connects that function to maintenance, service life and the practical question of how a structure will be used.

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06 /

Batteries & emerging storage

Electrochemical applications

Zinc is part of familiar batteries and newer storage systems. Different chemistries have different strengths; their performance should be compared under realistic operating conditions.

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